Explore California State Parks Week 2026 Events Near You —  This is Where You Live!

California State Parks Week returns this June 10–14, 2026, with free events and activities happening across California’s state parks! From horseback riding to nature journaling to historical tours and more, there’s sure to be an activity that sparks your excitement to get outside.  

Plus, calling all TK–12 student artists! We are again holding the California State Parks Week poster contest, now expanded to include transitional kindergarten. To learn more and submit your artwork, visit the website here.   

California State Parks Foundation is a key partner of this collaborative event series, directly funding park events that align with our mission and vision. We are proud to distribute almost $65,000 to support events statewide this year, with support from our Trailblazer sponsor, Niagara Cares, and our Park Champion supporter, Boeing.  

In particular, we encourage you to check out these special events that California State Parks Foundation helped make possible:  

California State Parks Week 2026 Featured Events 
 

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 

Explore Lake Natoma by Kayak & Stand-Up Paddleboard 

June 10 at 12:00 PM (Kayak), 3:00 PM (SUP), 6:00 PM (SUP), 6:30 PM (Kayak) 

• Join a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour with instruction and equipment provided. Space is limited; reserve your spot in advance. 

Thursday, June 11, 2026 

Mosaic Marvels of Hearst Castle 

June 11 at 9:00 AM 

• Create your own mosaic inspired by Hearst Castle’s Roman Pool and contribute to a collaborative display. Drop in anytime; supplies provided. 

Shipwrecks of Monterey: Exhibit Opening and Reception at Monterey State Historic Park 

June 11 at 5:30 PM 

• Celebrate the opening of a new exhibit with a talk, refreshments, and stories of Monterey’s maritime history. All are welcome. 

Friday, June 12, 2026 

Native American Demonstration at Dos Rios 

June 12 at 8:00 AM 

• Learn about traditional tribal practices like basket weaving and native plant use. Guided tours of the Native Use Garden will be offered. 

Explore Folsom Lake State Recreation Area on Horseback 

June 12 at 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM,  12:00 PM, 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM 

• Take a free guided horseback ride through the scenic Mississippi Bar area with basic instruction included. Advance reservations are required. 

Explore Paddle Sports at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area 

June 12 at 9:00 AM 

• Try kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding with instruction from State Parks staff. All equipment is provided; space is limited. 

Tule Elk Jamboree Art in Parks Festival at Tule Elk State Natural Reserve 

June 12 at 10:00 AM 

• Enjoy hands-on arts and crafts and guided tours inspired by nature at this family-friendly festival. All ages are welcome from 10am to 2pm. 

Hooked on Shorefishing at South Carlsbad State Beach 

June 12 at 10:00 AM 

• Learn the basics of sustainable shore fishing with expert guidance and hands-on practice. All supplies provided; great for beginners. 

Campando en las Secoyas 

June 12, Overnight 

• Camp under the redwoods and enjoy guided activities focused on outdoor skills and nature connection. Registration is full. 

Saturday, June 13, 2026 

Experience the Magic of Morro Bay State Park 

June 13 at 9:00 AM 

• Join a guided walk to explore wildlife and ecology along Morro Bay, with optional kayak opportunities for select participants. All ages welcome. 

Celebrating Japanese Culture at Crystal Cove State Park 

June 13 at 10:00 AM 

• Enjoy a day of Japanese cultural activities including music, dance, crafts, and demonstrations. All ages welcome. 

Celebrating Accessibility at Tijuana Estuary National Estuarine Research Reserve 

June 13 at 10:00 AM 

• Celebrate accessibility with nature walks, a speaker, and a new self-guided tour for blind and low-vision visitors. Inclusive resources provided. 

Celebrate Indigenous Communities at Andrew Molera State Park 

June 13 at 10:00 AM 

• Experience Indigenous perspectives through presentations and hands-on activities led by local tribes. A short walk from parking; all are welcome. 

Community Craft Day with a Historical Twist at Monterey State Historic Park 

June 13 at 10:00 AM 

• Create take-home crafts while learning about California history in a fun, family-friendly setting. Drop in anytime between 10am and 2pm. 

Pollinator Party: Bug Out! at William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park 

June 13 at 10:00 AM 

• Celebrate pollinators with crafts, games, live demos, and a butterfly and ladybug release. Fun for the whole family. 

Wild Words: Nature Journaling in Miwok Meadows at China Camp State Park 

June 13 at 10:00 AM 

• Join a guided walk and learn the art of nature journaling with provided supplies. Slow down, observe, and capture the beauty of the natural world. 

Activity Day at Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park 

June 13 at 10:30 AM 

• Enjoy hands-on activities, guided hikes, and cultural demonstrations with local tribal speakers. A fun, family-friendly day celebrating culture and history. 

Wild Things Native Wildlife Stewardship Presentation 

June 13 at 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM 

• Meet rescued native wildlife and learn about conservation in this engaging, family-friendly presentation. Free to attend with seating provided. 

Juneteenth Celebration at Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park 

June 13 at 11:00 AM 

• Celebrate Juneteenth with live entertainment, educational programs, tours, and family activities in the historic town of Allensworth. Food vendors will be on site. 

Sue-meg State Park Visitor Center Grand Reopening 

June 13 at 11:00 AM 

• Celebrate the reopening with cultural walks, kids’ activities, food, and new exhibits developed with local Tribes. Free community event. 

Inspired by the Land: Art at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park 

June 13 at 12:00 PM 

• Experience a day of art, music, and nature with artist booths, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Free to attend; some activities require advance sign-up. 

Explore The Night: Family Game Night at San Clemente State Beach 

June 13 at 7:00 PM 

• Play interactive games and enjoy coastal activities after dark in a fun, family-friendly setting. Bring a flashlight and warm layers. 

Sunday, June 14, 2026

Forest Restoration Volunteer Workday at Trinidad State Beach 

June 14 at 9:00 AM 

• Help remove invasive species and restore coastal habitat during this hands-on volunteer event. Tools and snacks provided. 

'The Mercury' Turns 100 at Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park 

June 14 at 10:00 AM 

• Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the historic Mercury speedboat with exhibits, programs, and hands-on activities. Learn about its legacy and Lake Tahoe history. 

Forest Bathing Walk at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park 

June 14 at 10:00 AM 

• Discover the calming practice of forest bathing on a guided walk focused on mindfulness and connection to nature. Space is limited; registration required. 

Yoga in the Park at Angel Island State Park 

June 14 at 10:30 AM  

• Enjoy a 1-hour outdoor yoga session at Angel Island State Park with a local instructor and stunning bay views. Open to all ages; bring a mat and arrive by ferry.   

Frequently Asked Questions About California State Parks Week 

What is California State Parks Week? 

California State Parks Week is an annual statewide celebration featuring free events, outdoor activities, cultural programs, and educational experiences across California state parks. 

When is California State Parks Week 2026? 

This year, California State Parks Week takes place June 10–14, 2026. 

Are California State Parks Week events free? 

All California State Parks Week events are offered free of charge to the public, though park entrance, parking, and/or day-use fees may apply at select locations. Visitors are encouraged to check the website before attending events. 

How do I register for California State Parks Week events? 

You can browse and RSVP for events at CAStateParksWeek.org. 

From outdoor adventures and cultural celebrations to volunteer projects, wildlife programs, and wellness activities, California State Parks Week brings people together at parks throughout California. Whether you are exploring a new trail, learning about local history, trying an outdoor activity for the first time, or spending time with family and friends, this week is a chance to experience the many ways California’s state parks connect communities, culture, and nature. 

Explore the full schedule of California State Parks Week 2026 events and RSVP for activities at CAStateParksWeek.org.